The Care And Keeping Of To-Do Lists

“A merry heart does good, like medicine. but a broken spirit dries the bones.” Proverbs 17:22

My daughter posted this last summer. I remember reading it and laughing out loud because it so reminded me of myself. When I was talking to my daughter this week about my woeful lack of time and inspiration for this blog, she most graciously told me: “Use something of mine, Mom.” I remembered this one and told her I was thinking of using it, to which she replied: “You need more humor. That would be a good one.” I have a wise daughter. She’s right. I need more humor as I have been way too serious of late. I hope this will make you smile. Just re-reading it brought laughter to my heart.

Please note that I do rely on to-do lists almost daily. Sometimes, however, I can get a little frustrated with both my own procrastination and the feeling of a mounting pile of work. Here is my humorous take on what happens when my desire to relax and need to be productive clash!

To-do lists can be scary creatures. They have tremendous effects on our psyches. Without them, contentment and relaxation reign supreme. But with them, disastrous effects can occur. Observe a normal day at home without a to-do list:

Wednesday morning:

9:30 a.m.

Wake up leisurely. Thoughts of reading, movies, and general relaxation produce quiet satisfaction.

11:15 a.m.

Read book.

1 p.m.

Continue reading book.

3 p.m.

Still reading book.

5:30 p.m.

Watch movie.

8 p.m.

Netsurf.

11 p.m.

Read.

12 a.m.

Bed.

To-do lists are often introduced by well-meaning persons that believe they are the key to productivity. However, when not properly looked after, they can produce chaos and disillusionment. Observe:

Wednesday, 8:30 p.m.

Sheer optimism takes hold of unsuspecting to-do list creator. Creator bounces enthusiastically around house as grandiose plans to complete entire to-do list form in head. Work hopes for Thursday: 113%

8:35 p.m.

Remember cavity filling next afternoon. Work hopes: 87%

Thursday, 10:05 a.m.

Sleep in. Work hopes: 60%

2:15 p.m.

Work begun. Work hopes: 63%

4 p.m.

Take short break from work. Work hopes: 62%

5:15 p.m.

Still on break. Work hopes: 46%

6 p.m.

Chill. Watch movie. Work hopes: 37%

7:45 p.m.

Brief burst of work, accompanied by enthusiasm. All work will still be done!!!! Work hopes: 79%